When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I have always dreamed of becoming an entomologist. Although it is a peculiar profession to pursue, the diverse ecosystem that lies in the undergrowth captured my heart. From the moment I witnessed the humble bumblebee buzz by bountiful blossoms in my garden, I knew that it was became my dream to work with these fascinating pollinating powerhouses. My fascination with insects continued into middle school, but then a tragedy struck. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in 8th grade. Not only was I diagnosed with cancer, but I had a lower prognosis because of my older age, and due to the cancer having a mutation called hypodiploid which made the cancer more difficult to kill. This devastated not only me, but my whole family. My quest for knowledge ground to a halt as defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remember my first question to the doctor was “What about school,” meaning what would happen with my education. When my doctor responded that “school [did] not matter right now,” it was as though he told me that my dreams, my childhood aspirations, did not matter. This devastated me. The diagnosis, the treatment, my broken dreams; beat down my spirit and threatened to take away my hope. Being diagnosed with cancer massively impacted my family's life and my own, both physically and mentally. The diagnosis and following treatment shattered my once greatly aspired dreams. With a broken spirit and hope on the verge of collapse, I returned to school to find some remnant of normalcy. I remember signing out of school one day, hands shaking, breaking one of my backpack zippers while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out. Once out I cried from my weakness, the unfairness. Constant battles with fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, mouth sores, and many other side effects from the chemotherapy imperiled to quench the flames of hope within me. Especially an effect of chemotherapy called chemo-fog, which makes it difficult to learn new subjects and focus. The realization that I couldn’t keep up academically came over me like an icy plunge, plunging my mind into the dark, hopeless abyss. However, through faith, hope, and a supporting family I was able to get back up and fight for another round. Finally, 2 ½ years later, I finished my fight with cancer and emerged victorious. After finishing treatment, I realized that my dream to study insects could finally be fulfilled, but, when I began my studies again it felt odd. I felt as though I had to give back to the community that supported me through my trial and shift the focus of my career. I realized that, with my newfound outlook, my strange passion could lead to an incredible change in the pharmaceutical industry! If an organism is found that possesses cancer-fighting properties, and then studied to create a less harmful chemotherapy to treat cancer, it could change the way medicine is made! I felt moved to use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. Especially my support system the Children’s Cancer Center (CCC) who's volunteers played a vital role in my will to continue my fight. I started at the CCC as a beneficiary of others’ kindness. As I started going to the CCC more often I found that their support was like a comforting embrace that reinvigorated my strength and cleared my mind. This is true for many families who go there. These families undergo extreme difficulties in the hospital, many of which are different from my experiences. From bone marrow transplants, to recurring cancer, however, we all have one struggle in common: mental health. Each family struggles with unique mental health struggles. Panic, insomnia, and stress are constant companions, with the biggest anxiety inducer... will I live to see tomorrow? These challenges take their toll. I have attended three funerals for friends of mine due to the atrocity that is cancer. They will never feel the sun, will never take another breath, will never be with their now brokenhearted loved ones. This grounding fact is what made me change the focus of my career. This has awoken a calling within me to learn, to study, to research. To bring peace and hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer with a less toxic chemotherapy treatment for cancer. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To bring those whose lives have been seized by cancer back to normalcy. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would vastly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I am an Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia survivor. I had a mutation called haplodiploid, and that, along with being a teen, increased my risk of not being in remission. However, in preserving through this challenge I gained a new perspective on life that has truly allowed me to connect with others who are struggling with their own battles. Cancer. That was the word that struck my heart with fear when the doctor first told diagnosed me in the hospital. This soon led to countless chemotherapies and treatments that all had one goal, to kill the cancer. However, throughout this time I had two key things that held me together; my family, and my faith. My family supported me throughout my treatment, and as is commonly said, “when the going gets tough the tough get going.” I was no exception to this fact, and the support my family showed in simple ways like bringing me food, and encouraging me throughout chemotherapy were major reasons I did not lose hope. Another reason, and perhaps the most important one, was keeping steadfast in my faith in God. Even in the darkest moments, surrounded by the seas of uncertainty, God kept me on solid ground and stayed by my side. I remember an especially hard time in treatment, when my initial diagnosis was then made graver with the discovery of a resilient mutation in the cancer, I surrendered myself, saying that “whether I live or I die, I would be at peace either way. If I die I would be with our father in heaven, and if I survive it would have a testimony that can be spread with the world.” This revelation led to a strengthening of my faith and eventually my victory over cancer, and a victory over the enemy. However, this victory did not lead to a peaceful ending. I still felt the need to repay the blessings and kindness that had been bestowed upon me. I started to pay this immeasurable kindness forward the summer vacation of 2023, the year after I completed treatment. I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center, to help young children who have been diagnosed with cancer. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can know how agonizing it is to be under chemotherapy. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. However, this ambition cannot take hold without a proper education. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. With this, I would be able to go on expeditions to travel the world in search of insects and plants for unique compounds in their venom, exoskeleton, bodily fluids, and cells with possible cancer fighting abilities. With remedies derived from natural resources with minimized egregious health impacts, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship. For our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I have always dreamed of becoming an entomologist. Although it is a peculiar profession to pursue, the diverse ecosystem that lies in the undergrowth captured my heart. From the moment I witnessed the humble bumblebee buzz by bountiful blossoms in my garden, I knew that it was became my dream to work with these fascinating pollinating powerhouses. My fascination with insects continued into middle school, but then a tragedy struck. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in 8th grade. Not only was I diagnosed with cancer, but I had a lower prognosis because of my older age, and due to the cancer having a mutation called hypodiploid which made the cancer more difficult to kill. This devastated not only me, but my whole family. My quest for knowledge ground to a halt as defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remember my first question to the doctor was “What about school,” meaning what would happen with my education. When my doctor responded that “school [did] not matter right now,” it was as though he told me that my dreams, my childhood aspirations, did not matter. This devastated me. The diagnosis, the treatment, my broken dreams; beat down my spirit and threatened to take away my hope. Being diagnosed with cancer massively impacted my family's life and my own, both physically and mentally. The diagnosis and following treatment shattered my once greatly aspired dreams. With a broken spirit and hope on the verge of collapse, I returned to school to find some remnant of normalcy. I remember signing out of school one day, hands shaking, breaking one of my backpack zippers while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out. Once out I cried from my weakness, the unfairness. Constant battles with fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, mouth sores, and many other side effects from the chemotherapy imperiled to quench the flames of hope within me. Especially an effect of chemotherapy called chemo-fog, which makes it difficult to learn new subjects and focus. The realization that I couldn’t keep up academically came over me like an icy plunge, plunging my mind into the dark, hopeless abyss. However, through faith, hope, and a supporting family I was able to get back up and fight for another round. Finally, 2 ½ years later, I finished my fight with cancer and emerged victorious. After finishing treatment, I realized that my dream to study insects could finally be fulfilled, but, when I began my studies again it felt odd. I felt as though I had to give back to the community that supported me through my trial and shift the focus of my career. I realized that, with my newfound outlook, my strange passion could lead to an incredible change in the pharmaceutical industry! If an organism is found that possesses cancer-fighting properties, and then studied to create a less harmful chemotherapy to treat cancer, it could change the way medicine is made! I felt moved to use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. Especially my support system the Children’s Cancer Center (CCC) who's volunteers played a vital role in my will to continue my fight. I started at the CCC as a beneficiary of others’ kindness. As I started going to the CCC more often I found that their support was like a comforting embrace that reinvigorated my strength and cleared my mind. This is true for many families who go there. These families undergo extreme difficulties in the hospital, many of which are different from my experiences. From bone marrow transplants, to recurring cancer, however, we all have one struggle in common: mental health. Each family struggles with unique mental health struggles. Panic, insomnia, and stress are constant companions, with the biggest anxiety inducer... will I live to see tomorrow? These challenges take their toll. I have attended three funerals for friends of mine due to the atrocity that is cancer. They will never feel the sun, will never take another breath, will never be with their now brokenhearted loved ones. This grounding fact is what made me change the focus of my career. This has awoken a calling within me to learn, to study, to research. To bring peace and hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer with a less toxic chemotherapy treatment for cancer. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To bring those whose lives have been seized by cancer back to normalcy. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would vastly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I am an Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia survivor. I had a mutation called haplodiploid, and that, along with being a teen, increased my risk of not being in remission. However, in preserving through this challenge I gained a new perspective on life that has truly allowed me to connect with others who are struggling with their own battles. Cancer. That was the word that struck my heart with fear when the doctor first told diagnosed me in the hospital. This soon led to countless chemotherapies and treatments that all had one goal, to kill the cancer. However, throughout this time I had two key things that held me together; my family, and my faith. My family supported me throughout my treatment, and as is commonly said, “when the going gets tough the tough get going.” I was no exception to this fact, and the support my family showed in simple ways like bringing me food, and encouraging me throughout chemotherapy were major reasons I did not lose hope. Another reason, and perhaps the most important one, was keeping steadfast in my faith in God. Even in the darkest moments, barred in by the seas of uncertainty, God kept me on solid ground and stayed by my side. I remember an especially hard time in treatment, when my initial diagnosis was then made graver with the discovery of a resilient mutation in the cancer, I surrendered myself, saying that “whether I live or I die, I would be at peace either way. If I die I would be with our father in heaven, and if I survive it would have a testimony that can be spread with the world.” This revelation led to a strengthening of my faith and eventually my victory over cancer, and a victory over the enemy. However, this victory did not lead to a peaceful ending. I still felt the need to repay the blessings and kindness that had been bestowed upon me. I started to pay this immeasurable kindness forward the summer vacation of 2023, the year after I completed treatment. I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center, to help young children who have been diagnosed with cancer. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can know how agonizing it is to be under chemotherapy. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. However, this ambition cannot take hold without a proper education. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. With this, I would be able to go on expeditions to travel the world in search of insects and plants for unique compounds in their venom, exoskeleton, bodily fluids, and cells with possible cancer fighting abilities. With remedies derived from natural resources with minimized egregious health impacts, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship. For our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

"The Bumble" If I were a bee, I'd bee a bumble bee A humble bumble bee. One that fumbles through the umbels and causes pollen grains to crumble. A humbled bumble bee. And as I fly away with a low mumble I would wonder why I had such small wings. A troubled bumble bee.

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I have always dreamed of becoming an entomologist. Although it is a peculiar profession to pursue, the diverse ecosystem that lies in the undergrowth captured my heart. From the moment I witnessed the humble bumblebee buzz by bountiful blossoms in my garden, I knew that it was became my dream to work with these fascinating pollinating powerhouses. My fascination with insects continued into middle school, but then, tragedy struck. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Not only this, but I had a lower prognosis due to my older age, and due to the cancer having a mutation called hypodiploid which made it more resilient. This devastated not only me, but my whole family. My quest for knowledge ground to a halt as defeating cancer took priority. The news threatened to beat down my spirit and take away my hope. I remember signing out of school one day, my hands shaking badly in the middle of the whole class, breaking one the zippers on my backpack while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out of the class. While stumbling down the stairs I started to cry. I cried from how weak I was, how unfair it was. I was beat down by constant fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, and many other side effects from the chemotherapy, but through faith, hope, and a supporting family I was able to get back up and fight for another round. Finally, 2 ½ years later, I emerged victorious. After finishing treatment, I realized that my dream to study insects could finally be fulfilled. However, I felt as though I had to give back to the community that supported me through my tribulation. I realized that if an organism is found that possesses cancer-fighting properties, and then studied to create a less harmful chemotherapy to treat cancer, it could change the way medicine is made! I felt moved pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is cancer. I also realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on me. The the Children’s Cancer Center, did not start as the place I volunteered, but was first the place I was a beneficiary to others gracious actions. I started at the CCC as a recipient of their comforting embrace. As I started going to the CCC more often I found that although the treatment I underwent was extremely tough, I felt as though the very fire of my soul was reignited with a renewed hope on each visit. This persisted even after my treatment, which I then went from being a recipient of support from caring individuals, to being an active participant, supporting those undergoing treatment. This is why I aspire to learn and study, to bring normalcy back to those cancer threatens to conquer. This scholarship would vastly improve my erudition, my studies, and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds for possible cancer-fighting abilities. These strange professions could be the pioneer to finding a less harmful remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

2020. A year most remember as the year COVID struck. However, this was the year that, at 13, I was diagnosed with cancer. My prognosis was lower due to my older age and a mutation called hypodiploid, which made the cancer harder to defeat. My quest for knowledge halted as defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remembered my doctor telling me that school did not matter right now. This devastated me. Being diagnosed with cancer massively impacted my family's life and my own, both physically and mentally. The diagnosis and following treatment shattered my once greatly aspired dreams. With a broken spirit and hope on the verge of collapse, I returned to school to find some remnant of normalcy. I remember signing out of school one day, hands shaking, breaking one of my backpack zippers while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out. Once out I cried from my weakness, the unfairness. Constant battles with fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, and many other side effects from the chemotherapy imperiled to quench the flames of hope within me. Especially an effect of chemotherapy called chemo-fog, which makes it difficult to learn new subjects and focus. The realization that I couldn’t keep up academically came over me like an icy plunge, plunging my mind into the dark, hopeless abyss. However, through faith, hope, and a supporting family I kept getting back up to fight for another round; Especially Children’s Cancer Center (CCC), played a vital role in my will to continue my fight. I started at the CCC as a beneficiary of others’ kindness. As I started going to the CCC more often I found that their support reinvigorated my strength and cleared my mind. This is true for many families who go there. These families undergo extreme difficulties in the hospital, many of which are different from my experiences. From bone marrow transplants, to recurring cancer, however, we all have one struggle in common: mental health. Each family struggles with unique mental health struggles. Panic, insomnia, and stress are constant companions, with the biggest anxiety inducer... will I live to see tomorrow? These challenges take their toll. I have attended three friends' funerals due to the atrocity that is cancer. They will never feel the sun, take another breath, nor ever be with their now brokenhearted loved ones. This grounding fact is what made me change the focus of my career. This has awoken a calling within me to learn, to study, to research. To bring peace and hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer with a less toxic chemotherapy treatment for cancer. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require-a Ph.D. in Entomology and a M.S. in Botany. Although a significant challenge, this scholarship would vastly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their cells for possible cancer-fighting properties. Using remedies derived from nature, children, and adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For a cure. Through entomology and botany, I see an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

2020. A year most remember as the year COVID struck. However, this was the year that, at 13, I was diagnosed with cancer. My prognosis was lower due to my older age and a mutation called hypodiploid, which made the cancer harder to defeat. My quest for knowledge halted as defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remembered my doctor telling me that school did not matter right now. This devastated me. Being diagnosed with cancer massively impacted my family's life and my own, both physically and mentally. The diagnosis and following treatment shattered my once greatly aspired dreams. With a broken spirit and hope on the verge of collapse, I returned to school to find some remnant of normalcy. I remember signing out of school one day, hands shaking, breaking one of my backpack zippers while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out. Once out I cried from my weakness, the unfairness. Constant battles with fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, and many other side effects from the chemotherapy imperiled to quench the flames of hope within me. Especially an effect of chemotherapy called chemo-fog, which makes it difficult to learn new subjects and focus. The realization that I couldn’t keep up academically came over me like an icy plunge, plunging my mind into the dark, hopeless abyss. However, through faith, hope, and a supporting family I kept getting back up to fight for another round; Especially Children’s Cancer Center (CCC), played a vital role in my will to continue my fight. I started at the CCC as a beneficiary of others’ kindness. As I started going to the CCC more often I found that their support reinvigorated my strength and cleared my mind. This is true for many families who go there. These families undergo extreme difficulties in the hospital, many of which are different from my experiences. From bone marrow transplants, to recurring cancer, however, we all have one struggle in common: mental health. Each family struggles with unique mental health struggles. Panic, insomnia, and stress are constant companions, with the biggest anxiety inducer... will I live to see tomorrow? These challenges take their toll. I have attended three friends' funerals due to the atrocity that is cancer. They will never feel the sun, take another breath, nor ever be with their now brokenhearted loved ones. This grounding fact is what made me change the focus of my career. This has awoken a calling within me to learn, to study, to research. To bring peace and hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer with a less toxic chemotherapy treatment for cancer. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require-a Ph.D. in Entomology and a M.S. in Botany. Although a significant challenge, this scholarship would vastly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their cells for possible cancer-fighting properties. Using remedies derived from nature, children, and adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For a cure. Through entomology and botany, I see an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I have always dreamed of becoming an entomologist. Although a peculiar profession to pursue, the diverse ecosystem that lies in the undergrowth captured my heart. Witnessing the humble bumblebee buzz by bountiful blossoms, it became my dream to work with these fascinating pollinating powerhouses. My fascination with insects continued into middle school, then a tragedy struck. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Not only was I diagnosed with cancer, but I had a lower prognosis because of my older age, and due to the cancer having a mutation called hypodiploidy which made remission exceedingly difficult. This devastated me and my family. My quest for knowledge halted, defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remembered my doctor, after I asked him, telling me that school did not matter right now. This devastated me; however, I kept my faith and my hope. I remember signing out of school one day, hands shaking badly, breaking one of my backpack zippers while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out of the class. While stumbling down the stairs I started to cry. I cried seeing how weak I was, how unfair it was. Constantly beat down by fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, and many other side effects from chemotherapy. Faith, hope, and a supporting family helped me get back up and fight another round. Finally, 2 ½ years later, I finished my fight with cancer and emerged victorious. After treatment, I realized that my dream to study insects could finally be fulfilled, but, that dream evolved into wanting to help others. I needed to shift the focus of my career to give back to the community that supported me. I realized that, with my newfound outlook, my strange passion could lead to an incredible change in the pharmaceutical industry! If an organism is found that possesses cancer-fighting properties, and studied to create less harmful chemotherapy, it could change the way medicine is made! I felt moved to use this gift to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction called childhood cancer. My drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others had on my life. The Children’s Cancer Center (CCC) did not start as the place I volunteered, but was first the place I felt comforted and cared for. Although the treatment I underwent was arduous, my soul was reignited with a renewed hope on each visit. This feeling persisted even after treatment, and I went from being a receiving support from caring individuals, to supporting others undergoing treatment. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To bring hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. This scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and allow me to give back to our amazing community that has given, and lost, so much. With remedies derived from nature, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. There is an opportunity to better the that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I have always dreamed of becoming an entomologist. Although a peculiar profession to pursue, the diverse ecosystem that lies in the undergrowth captured my heart. Witnessing the humble bumblebee buzz by bountiful blossoms, it became my dream to work with these fascinating pollinating powerhouses. My fascination with insects continued into middle school, then a tragedy struck. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Not only was I diagnosed with cancer, but I had a lower prognosis because of my older age, and due to the cancer having a mutation called hypodiploidy which made remission exceedingly difficult. This devastated me and my family. My quest for knowledge halted, defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remembered my doctor, after I asked him, telling me that school did not matter right now. This devastated me; however, I kept my faith and my hope. I remember signing out of school one day, hands shaking badly, breaking one of my backpack zippers while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out of the class. While stumbling down the stairs I started to cry. I cried seeing how weak I was, how unfair it was. Constantly beat down by fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, and many other side effects from chemotherapy. Faith, hope, and a supporting family helped me get back up and fight another round. Finally, 2 ½ years later, I finished my fight with cancer and emerged victorious. After treatment, I realized that my dream to study insects could finally be fulfilled, but, that dream evolved into wanting to help others. I needed to shift the focus of my career to give back to the community that supported me. I realized that, with my newfound outlook, my strange passion could lead to an incredible change in the pharmaceutical industry! If an organism is found that possesses cancer-fighting properties, and studied to create less harmful chemotherapy, it could change the way medicine is made! I felt moved to use this gift to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction called childhood cancer. My drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others had on my life. The Children’s Cancer Center (CCC) did not start as the place I volunteered, but was first the place I felt comforted and cared for. Although the treatment I underwent was arduous, my soul was reignited with a renewed hope on each visit. This feeling persisted even after treatment, and I went from being a receiving support from caring individuals, to supporting others undergoing treatment. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To bring hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. This scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and allow me to give back to our amazing community that has given, and lost, so much. With remedies derived from nature, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. There is an opportunity to better the that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

2020. A year most remember as the year COVID struck. However, this was the year that, at 13, I was diagnosed with cancer. My prognosis was lower due to my older age and a mutation called hypodiploid, which made the cancer harder to defeat. My quest for knowledge halted as defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remembered my doctor telling me that school did not matter right now. This devastated me. Being diagnosed with cancer massively impacted my family's life and my own, both physically and mentally. The diagnosis and following treatment shattered my once greatly aspired dreams. With a broken spirit and hope on the verge of collapse, I returned to school to find some remnant of normalcy. I remember signing out of school one day, hands shaking, breaking one of my backpack zippers while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out. Once out I cried from my weakness, the unfairness. Constant battles with fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, and many other side effects from the chemotherapy imperiled to quench the flames of hope within me. Especially an effect of chemotherapy called chemo-fog, which makes it difficult to learn new subjects and focus. The realization that I couldn’t keep up academically came over me like an icy plunge, plunging my mind into the dark, hopeless abyss. However, through faith, hope, and a supporting family I kept getting back up to fight for another round. The Children’s Cancer Center, (CCC), played a vital role in my will to continue my fight. I started at the CCC as a beneficiary of others’ kindness. As I started going to the CCC more often I found that their support reinvigorated my strength and cleared my mind. This is true for many families who go there. These families undergo extreme difficulties in the hospital, many of which are different from my experiences. From bone marrow transplants, to recurring cancer, however, we all have one struggle in common: mental health. Each family struggles with unique mental health struggles. Panic, insomnia, and stress are constant companions, with the biggest anxiety inducer... will I live to see tomorrow? These challenges take their toll. I have attended three friends' funerals due to the atrocity that is cancer. They will never feel the sun, take another breath, nor ever be with their now brokenhearted loved ones. This grounding fact is what made me change the focus of my career. This has awoken a calling within me to learn, to study, to research. To bring peace and hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer with a less toxic chemotherapy treatment for cancer. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require-a Ph.D. in Entomology and a M.S. in Botany. Although a significant challenge, this scholarship would vastly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their cells for possible cancer-fighting properties. Using remedies derived from nature, children, and adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For a cure. Through entomology and botany, I see an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

2020. A year most remember as the year COVID struck. However, this was the year that, at 13, I was diagnosed with cancer. My prognosis was lower due to my older age and a mutation called hypodiploid, which made the cancer harder to defeat. My quest for knowledge halted as defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remembered my doctor telling me that school did not matter right now. This devastated me. Being diagnosed with cancer massively impacted my family's life and my own, both physically and mentally. The diagnosis and following treatment shattered my once greatly aspired dreams. With a broken spirit and hope on the verge of collapse, I returned to school to find some remnant of normalcy. I remember signing out of school one day, hands shaking, breaking one of my backpack zippers while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out. Once out I cried from my weakness, the unfairness. Constant battles with fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, and many other side effects from the chemotherapy imperiled to quench the flames of hope within me. Especially an effect of chemotherapy called chemo-fog, which makes it difficult to learn new subjects and focus. The realization that I couldn’t keep up academically came over me like an icy plunge, plunging my mind into the dark, hopeless abyss. However, through faith, hope, and a supporting family I kept getting back up to fight for another round; Especially Children’s Cancer Center (CCC), played a vital role in my will to continue my fight. I started at the CCC as a beneficiary of others’ kindness. As I started going to the CCC more often I found that their support reinvigorated my strength and cleared my mind. This is true for many families who go there. These families undergo extreme difficulties in the hospital, many of which are different from my experiences. From bone marrow transplants, to recurring cancer, however, we all have one struggle in common: mental health. Each family struggles with unique mental health struggles. Panic, insomnia, and stress are constant companions, with the biggest anxiety inducer... will I live to see tomorrow? These challenges take their toll. I have attended three friends' funerals due to the atrocity that is cancer. They will never feel the sun, take another breath, nor ever be with their now brokenhearted loved ones. This grounding fact is what made me change the focus of my career. This has awoken a calling within me to learn, to study, to research. To bring peace and hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer with a less toxic chemotherapy treatment for cancer. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require-a Ph.D. in Entomology and a M.S. in Botany. Although a significant challenge, this scholarship would vastly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their cells for possible cancer-fighting properties. Using remedies derived from nature, children, and adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For a cure. Through entomology and botany, I see an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

2020, a year most remember as the year covid struck. However, this was the year that at 13 years old I was diagnosed with cancer. I had a lower prognosis because of my older age, and due to the cancer having a mutation called hypodiploid which made the cancer more difficult to kill. This devastated me, and my family's physical, and mental health. This diagnosis halted my quest for knowledge as defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remember my first question to the doctor was “What about school,” meaning what would happen with my education. When my doctor responded that “school [did] not matter right now,” it was as though he told me that my dreams, my childhood aspirations, did not matter. Being diagnosed with cancer massively impacted my life, both physically and mentally. The diagnosis and following treatment shattered my once greatly aspired dreams and deteriorated my mental health. With a broken spirit and hope on the verge of collapse, I returned to school to keep up with my academics. I remember signing out of school one day. I remember my hands shaking badly, in the middle of the whole class, breaking one the zippers on my backpack while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out of the class. This is when I started to cry; I cried from the situation, how weak I was, how unfair it was. The constant battle with fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, mouth sores, and many other side effects from the chemotherapy imperiled to quench the flames of hope within me. Especially an effect of chemotherapy called chemo-fog which makes it hard to learn new subjects and hard to focus. This was one of the lowest points for me because I realized that I would be unable to do what I had previously done academically. This realization came over me like an ice plunge, plunging my mind into the dark hopeless abyss. However, through faith, hope, and a supporting family I kept getting back up to fight for another round. My support system played a vital part in my will to continue my fight. This support also came from organizations such as the CCC, the Children’s Cancer Center. The CCC did not start as the place I volunteered but was first the place I was a beneficiary to others gracious actions. I started at the CCC as a recipient of their comforting embrace. As I started going to the CCC more often I found that although the treatment I underwent was extremely tough, I felt as though my strength was reinvigorated and my mind was made clear. This is true for many families who go there. These families undergo extreme difficulties in the hospital, many of which are completely different from my experiences. From bone marrow transplants, to recurring cancer, these families have fought battle after battle. However, we all have one struggle in common. Mental health. Each family struggles with unique mental health struggles. Some panic with each new symptom, some have insomnia from worrying about the next day, and the biggest anxiety inducer... will I live to see tomorrow? These challenges take their toll. Not every child makes it through treatment. I have attended three funerals for friends of mine due to the atrocity that is cancer. These kids will never play in the sun, will never take another breath, will never be with their now brokenhearted loved ones. This fact is what made me change the focus of my career. This has awoken a calling within me to learn, to study, to research. To bring peace and hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer with a less toxic chemotherapy treatment for cancer. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would vastly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I have always dreamed of becoming an entomologist. Although a peculiar profession to pursue, the diverse ecosystem that lies in the undergrowth captured my heart. Witnessing the humble bumblebee buzz by bountiful blossoms, it became my dream to work with these fascinating pollinating powerhouses. My fascination with insects continued into middle school, then a tragedy struck. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Not only was I diagnosed with cancer, but I had a lower prognosis because of my older age, and due to the cancer having a mutation called hypodiploidy which made remission exceedingly difficult. This devastated me and my family. My quest for knowledge halted, defeating cancer took priority. Constantly beat down by fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, and many other side effects from chemotherapy. Faith, hope, and a supporting family helped me fight another round. Finally, 2 ½ years later, I finished my fight with cancer and emerged victorious. After treatment, I realized that my dream to study insects could finally be fulfilled, but, that dream evolved into wanting to help others. I needed to shift the focus of my career to give back to the community that supported me. I realized that, with my newfound outlook, my strange passion could lead to an incredible change in the pharmaceutical industry! If an organism is found, and studied, to create less harmful chemotherapy, it could change the way medicine is made! I felt moved to use this gift to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction called childhood cancer. My drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others had on my life. The Children’s Cancer Center (CCC) did not start as the place I volunteered, but was first the place I felt comforted and cared for. Although the treatment I underwent was arduous, my soul was reignited with a renewed hope on each visit. This feeling persisted even after treatment, and I went from being a receiving support from caring individuals, to supporting others undergoing treatment. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To bring hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. This scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and allow me to give back to our amazing community that has given, and lost, so much. With remedies derived from nature, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. This is an opportunity to , potentially, find a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I have always dreamed of becoming an entomologist. Although a peculiar profession to pursue, the diverse ecosystem that lies in the undergrowth captured my heart. Witnessing the humble bumblebee buzz by bountiful blossoms, it became my dream to work with these fascinating pollinating powerhouses. My fascination with insects continued into middle school, then a tragedy struck. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Not only was I diagnosed with cancer, but I had a lower prognosis because of my older age, and due to the cancer having a mutation called hypodiploidy which made remission exceedingly difficult. This devastated me and my family. My quest for knowledge halted, defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remembered my doctor, after I asked him, telling me that school did not matter right now. This devastated me; however, I kept my faith and my hope. I remember signing out of school one day, hands shaking badly, breaking one of my backpack zippers while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out of the class. While stumbling down the stairs I started to cry. I cried seeing how weak I was, how unfair it was. Constantly beat down by fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, and many other side effects from chemotherapy. Faith, hope, and a supporting family helped me get back up and fight another round. Finally, 2 ½ years later, I finished my fight with cancer and emerged victorious. After treatment, I realized that my dream to study insects could finally be fulfilled, but, that dream evolved into wanting to help others. I needed to shift the focus of my career to give back to the community that supported me. I realized that, with my newfound outlook, my strange passion could lead to an incredible change in the pharmaceutical industry! If an organism is found that possesses cancer-fighting properties, and studied to create less harmful chemotherapy, it could change the way medicine is made! I felt moved to use this gift to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction called childhood cancer. My drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others had on my life. The Children’s Cancer Center (CCC) did not start as the place I volunteered, but was first the place I felt comforted and cared for. Although the treatment I underwent was arduous, my soul was reignited with a renewed hope on each visit. This feeling persisted even after treatment, and I went from being a receiving support from caring individuals, to supporting others undergoing treatment. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To bring hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. This scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and allow me to give back to our amazing community that has given, and lost, so much. With remedies derived from nature, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. There is an opportunity to better the that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I have always dreamed of becoming an entomologist. Although a peculiar profession to pursue, the diverse ecosystem that lies in the undergrowth captured my heart. Witnessing the humble bumblebee buzz by bountiful blossoms, it became my dream to work with these fascinating pollinating powerhouses. My fascination with insects continued into middle school, then a tragedy struck. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Not only was I diagnosed with cancer, but I had a lower prognosis because of my older age, and due to the cancer having a mutation called hypodiploidy which made remission exceedingly difficult. This devastated me and my family. My quest for knowledge halted, defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remembered my doctor, after I asked him, telling me that school did not matter right now. This devastated me; however, I kept my faith and my hope. I remember signing out of school one day, hands shaking badly, breaking one of my backpack zippers while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out of the class. While stumbling down the stairs I started to cry. I cried seeing how weak I was, how unfair it was. Constantly beat down by fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, and many other side effects from chemotherapy. Faith, hope, and a supporting family helped me get back up and fight another round. Finally, 2 ½ years later, I finished my fight with cancer and emerged victorious. After treatment, I realized that my dream to study insects could finally be fulfilled, but, that dream evolved into wanting to help others. I needed to shift the focus of my career to give back to the community that supported me. I realized that, with my newfound outlook, my strange passion could lead to an incredible change in the pharmaceutical industry! If an organism is found that possesses cancer-fighting properties, and studied to create less harmful chemotherapy, it could change the way medicine is made! I felt moved to use this gift to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction called childhood cancer. My drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others had on my life. The Children’s Cancer Center (CCC) did not start as the place I volunteered, but was first the place I felt comforted and cared for. Although the treatment I underwent was arduous, my soul was reignited with a renewed hope on each visit. This feeling persisted even after treatment, and I went from being a receiving support from caring individuals, to supporting others undergoing treatment. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To bring hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. This scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and allow me to give back to our amazing community that has given, and lost, so much. With remedies derived from nature, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. There is an opportunity to better the that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I have always dreamed of becoming an entomologist. Although a peculiar profession to pursue, the diverse ecosystem that lies in the undergrowth captured my heart. Witnessing the humble bumblebee buzz by bountiful blossoms, it became my dream to work with these fascinating pollinating powerhouses. My fascination with insects continued into middle school, then a tragedy struck. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Not only was I diagnosed with cancer, but I had a lower prognosis because of my older age, and due to the cancer having a mutation called hypodiploidy which made remission exceedingly difficult. This devastated me and my family. My quest for knowledge halted, defeating cancer took priority. After being diagnosed I remembered my doctor, after I asked him, telling me that school did not matter right now. This devastated me; however, I kept my faith and my hope. I remember signing out of school one day, hands shaking badly, breaking one of my backpack zippers while a friend offered help. Being shy and on the verge of a breakdown, I refused their help and unsteadily walked out of the class. While stumbling down the stairs I started to cry. I cried seeing how weak I was, how unfair it was. Constantly beat down by fevers, zero platelets, an immunocompromised body, and many other side effects from chemotherapy. Faith, hope, and a supporting family helped me get back up and fight another round. Finally, 2 ½ years later, I finished my fight with cancer and emerged victorious. After treatment, I realized that my dream to study insects could finally be fulfilled, but, that dream evolved into wanting to help others. I needed to shift the focus of my career to give back to the community that supported me. I realized that, with my newfound outlook, my strange passion could lead to an incredible change in the pharmaceutical industry! If an organism is found that possesses cancer-fighting properties, and studied to create less harmful chemotherapy, it could change the way medicine is made! I felt moved to use this gift to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction called childhood cancer. My drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others had on my life. The Children’s Cancer Center (CCC) did not start as the place I volunteered, but was first the place I felt comforted and cared for. Although the treatment I underwent was arduous, my soul was reignited with a renewed hope on each visit. This feeling persisted even after treatment, and I went from being a receiving support from caring individuals, to supporting others undergoing treatment. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To bring hope to those whose lives have been seized by cancer. This scholarship would be conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. This scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and allow me to give back to our amazing community that has given, and lost, so much. With remedies derived from nature, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. As Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. There is an opportunity to better the that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

I am an Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia survivor. I had a mutation called haplodiploid, and that, along with being a teen, increased my risk of not being in remission. However, in preserving through this challenge I gained a new perspective on life that has truly allowed me to connect with others who are struggling with their own battles. Cancer. That was the word that struck my heart with fear when the doctor first told diagnosed me in the hospital. This soon led to countless chemotherapies and treatments that all had one goal, to kill the cancer. However, throughout this time I had two key things that held me together; my family, and my faith. My family supported me throughout my treatment, and as is commonly said, “when the going gets tough the tough get going.” I was no exception to this fact, and the support my family showed in simple ways like bringing me food, and encouraging me throughout chemotherapy were major reasons I did not lose hope. Another reason, and perhaps the most important one, was keeping steadfast in my faith in God. Even in the darkest moments, surrounded by the seas of uncertainty, God kept me on solid ground and stayed by my side. I remember an especially hard time in treatment, when my initial diagnosis was then made graver with the discovery of a resilient mutation in the cancer, I surrendered myself, saying that “whether I live or I die, I would be at peace either way. If I die I would be with our father in heaven, and if I survive it would have a testimony that can be spread with the world.” This revelation led to a strengthening of my faith and eventually my victory over cancer, and a victory over the enemy. However, this victory did not lead to a peaceful ending. I still felt the need to repay the blessings and kindness that had been bestowed upon me. I started to pay this immeasurable kindness forward the summer vacation of 2023, the year after I completed treatment. I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center, to help young children who have been diagnosed with cancer. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can know how agonizing it is to be under chemotherapy. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. However, this ambition cannot take hold without a proper education. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. With this, I would be able to go on expeditions to travel the world in search of insects and plants for unique compounds in their venom, exoskeleton, bodily fluids, and cells with possible cancer fighting abilities. With remedies derived from natural resources with minimized egregious health impacts, children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying for this scholarship. For our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Pre-Bcell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. My cancer had a rare mutation called hypodiploid. Hypodiploid is when cancer cells have fewer than 40 chromosomes, and this, combined with my older age, led me to be classified as “high risk”. Yet I am still here, more passionate, determined, and mature than before. As the strongest steel is forged in the hottest fires, I went through fire and brimstone and can now testify how tenacity and purpose all set the fundamental foundation for my future. I had always been interested in entomology and botany from an early age. In my childhood home, we had a garden where I would spend the majority of the day probing through soil and plants rooting for curious critters. And although my peculiar interest was not shared by my peers, I was not discouraged. Throughout my cancer journey this became my coping mechanism, and although the chemotherapy used to treat cancer caused me to be physically and mentally incapable of performing difficult tasks, in the few weeks after my treatment commenced, I began to perceive the drastic effect this had on my curriculars. I was not only waging a war for my very existence, but for my raison d'être. Now having won my battle and with a newfound purpose, I will be able to pursue my field and fulfill my burning desire to end the hellish torment those treated for cancer suffer. Because of the experiences I had during my cancer's downfall, I realized that I must use this gift, this opportunity, I was given to pursue an unorthodox solution to the grievous affliction that is childhood cancer. In studying the relatively unresearched cancer-fighting properties of insects and plants hidden in various parts of the world, a cure could be found to benefit future generations. The incredible change that could be made to the pharmaceutical industry from finding an organism that possesses cancer-fighting properties that can be applied to humanity could change the way medicine is made! I realized that my drive to improve the lives of others stemmed from the impact others have had on my life. This epiphany came as I volunteered with the CCC, the Children's Cancer Center. While volunteering with the CCC I witnessed just how strong the kids were, regardless of their disabilities or energy levels. Their unrelenting playfulness and joy deeply moved me, as I can relate to the agony they were enduring. This is why I aspire to learn, to study, to research. To improve the lives of those that cancer has seized. This scholarship would be extremely conducive to achieving the level of education I require, a Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology and a Master of Science in Botany. Although the challenge of rising to the top will be extremely difficult, this scholarship would greatly improve my erudition and my ability to travel in search of insects and plants with unique compounds in their venom, fluids, and cells for possible cancer-fighting abilities. With remedies derived from nature children, and even adults, could experience higher survival rates and lower long-term health impacts. Just as Ralph Waldo Emerson eloquently put it, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” Entomology could be the pioneer in finding a remedy for the horror that is cancer. This is why I am applying, to enable me to study for our future. For our loved ones. For our cure. I see through entomology and botany an opportunity to better the pharmaceutical industry with a field of study that, potentially, has a cure awaiting discovery in the undergrowth...